Kampala, Uganda: Uganda’s legal and cultural fraternity is in mourning following the death of distinguished senior lawyer Peter Mulira, a respected columnist and former minister in the Buganda Kingdom.
News of his passing on May 2, 2026, brings to a close a career defined by intellectual depth, fearless commentary, and unwavering commitment to constitutionalism.
Mulira was widely regarded as one of the most authoritative voices on Uganda’s legal and political history, earning a reputation as a “walking encyclopedia” of the country’s constitutional evolution. Through his widely read columns in the Daily Monitor, he shaped national debate on complex issues including land rights, the Mailo land system, and the interpretation of the 1962 and 1995 Constitutions.
His writing often challenged both state and traditional institutions, firmly grounding his arguments in the rule of law and historical context.
Beyond legal scholarship, Mulira was a key figure within the Buganda Kingdom, where he served under Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II. He played a critical role in articulating the kingdom’s legal position in its relationship with the central government and remained a vocal defender of Buganda’s heritage.
The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, eulogised Mulira as a meticulous thinker and researcher whose work was grounded in facts and deep historical knowledge.
“Our deepest condolences to His Majesty. We have lost a great pillar,” Mayiga said in a tribute, highlighting Mulira’s lineage and close historical ties to Buganda’s royal family.
Despite facing personal challenges in later years, including high-profile legal disputes over property, Mulira remained active in public discourse. He continued mentoring young lawyers and offering sharp critiques on governance and policy until his final days.
His passing marks the loss of a towering legal mind whose influence shaped Uganda’s legal scholarship, public debate, and cultural discourse for decades.
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